Winter storm warnings issued ahead of much needed snow in Colorado, Wyoming
The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings for parts of Colorado and Wyoming starting May 4 as much-needed heavy snowfall begins to dump the Rockies.
A strong cold front from Canada is moving southeast across the Plains. National Weather Service Widespread showers and thunderstorms are expected to affect most of the country. Meanwhile, the Central Rockies and higher elevations of the Great Basin will see snow in the mountains, while the Northern Plains will experience a mix of rain and wintry.
Winter storm warnings It will go into effect from late May 4 through May 6 in parts of Wyoming and Colorado, including Rocky Mountain National Park. Starting May 5, temperatures will drop into the 40s in parts of the Central Rockies, well below average for this time of year, and up to 2 feet of snow could fall in the mountains and hills to the north.
Snow is expected in the higher elevations of the Colorado Rockies later this week, but it’s not expected to help the ongoing drought.
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The weather service in Cheyenne warned travelers to be careful as roads and bridges were likely to be “slippery, slushy and dangerous.” Outdoor activities will also be at risk, especially for unprepared hunters, hikers, and snowmobilers who may get lost due to poor visibility in heavy snow.
“Heavy snow will accumulate on tree branches and power lines, possibly causing them to break and causing power outages,” the weather service in Denver said. he warned. “Travel can be very difficult or even impossible at times, especially late on a Tuesday.”
Late-season snowfall is not uncommon in Colorado’s mountains. The region could “benefit greatly” from any rainfall NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center An earlier forecast said so, but experts said the storm wouldn’t be enough to make up for the lack of snowfall so far this season.
“Depending on where you are in Colorado, this is one of the worst snow seasons on record; some places have the least amount of snow this season,” drought expert Brian Fuchs said. National Drought Mitigation Center in question. He added that less snow now means less water will be available for plants, animals, people and agriculture later this summer, which could mean an increase in water restrictions.
Credit: Doyle Rice
This article first appeared on USA TODAY: Winter storm warnings and heavy snow expected in Colorado, Wyoming
